In honor of Black History Month, I decided to host a Punch Bowl Social watch party.  I wanted to show an inspiring documentary that would not only educate but also empower women of all races. I chose the Madame C J Walker story – $2.00 and a Dream.  Her story begins with a humble beginning as a daughter of ex-slaves, an orphan at 7, married at 14, a mother at 17 and a widow by 20.  She rose up to become the first female entrepreneur and self-made millionaire, which all started with $2.00 and a dream.  Born as Sarah Breedlove, she was one of the greatest philanthropists of the Black race of her time.  She pioneered the concept of door-to-door sales,  which later became the blueprint for companies such as Avon and Mary Kay.

The table was dressed using many of my vintage glassware and I decided to use one of my Murano swans for an elaborate dip bowl.

 

This time I used the punch bowl I snagged during my Florida trip (which gave me the idea of this series).  It is quite stunning on the table

The menu was chicken salad sandwiches on croissants, tossed salad, spinach-artichoke dip, salmon swirls, cookies, strawberries w/marshmellow dip, blueberry yogurt pie, dogs-in-blankets and of course Punch, wine and Prosecco.

The vintage party trays were used and the gold flatware added additional elegance of the table.  I’ve always admired using party trays and for the life of me – I can’t see how come they’re not used often.  I find so many of them in Goodwills and Thrift Stores.  I have a small collection of different shapes and sizes.

Thrifted milk glass pot served as the utensil holder

I get so happy when I use the water glasses because they were part of my maternal grandmother’s china pride I inherited and every time I use them I envision her smiling face winking at me saying “thank you” for honoring me by keeping them in the family.  I was blessed to have her entire collection including a pitcher and serving bowls, which is featured next to the punch bowl.

I actually came across some similar ones while shopping in Home Goods that were being reproduced (in China-of course) but were made of a lightweight plastic, which really bothers me. Depression Glassware is an inexpensive glass that was manufactured in large quantities during the 1920’s and early 1930’s.  The best part is that they were made in the United States and comes in many colors and patterns.  I just think why bother buying cheaply made plastic when real glass is so much better.. and sadly – cheaper.

I used a vintage plant stand for the ice bucket holder

Right before the guests arrived I made the punch.  For this day I made a Cranberry Sparkle Punch.

All smiley faces as we greeted each other (happy to be together again) some of use snapped a quick pic around the punch bowl.  (I have to admit I hate the way I look – I didn’t wear make-up but I went with the flow – besides they made me.lol…beauty is only skin deep).

The ladies did some idle chatting and grabbing munchies to watch the film

As you see there was plenty to munch on and everything was delicious

Everyone grabbed a seat and the movie began.

After the film we talked about what we learned, how we felt and the inspirational feeling derived from moment.

Though we had some familiar faces, we also had two newbies to this group.  One was a wonderful lady name Patricia.  I met her during my time of volunteering for MADD.  She spoke about losing her son-in-law and 3 grandsons in a car accident caused by a drunk driver.  Our hearts were saddened by her lost, but yet we were inspired by how she turned it around to become a strong advocate and community leader representing MADD.  (again – I hate my pic..lol ..yuck).  She also shared her story of how she felt as a little girl during the turmoil of our country during the desegregation of our nation.

The other is another dynamic lady Simone.  I met her while working at the Visitor’s Center and she and I became friends almost instantly. Simone is the founder of Dream Big Jobs which she counsels students about career choices and how to help them pursue their dreams.

I honestly am truly blessed to have such wonderful people in my life including those whom I’ve met through this blog.  This Punch Bowl Social is just another avenue to bring back the socializing of life and to connect folks together (again).  Social media is good but we cannot let it be our only “social” avenue.  Having these functions brings the two worlds together.

Not mention – I get to use all this beautiful thrifted glassware.  I hope you enjoyed this segment of the Punch Bowl Series event and also encourages you to bring out that punch bowl and socialize again.   Until next time –  see you at the next  post

Smooches!!!